When a property suffers fire damage, the visible destruction caused by flames is often only part of the story. In many cases, smoke damage can be just as significant, affecting areas of the property that were never touched by the fire itself.
Smoke particles can discolour surfaces, leave stubborn residues and over time, even lead to corrosion. As a result, assessing the full extent of the damage can become more complex than it first appears.
In these situations, expert loss assessing can play an important role in ensuring the policy responds appropriately and that the insured receives a fair settlement.
Securing a Fair Outcome
In one recent case, an insurer worked alongside Claims Equilibrium Club (CEC) adjusters to resolve a complex fire damage claim.
The insurer initially assessed the loss at approximately £30,000, with liability accepted. However, following detailed discussions and negotiations by CEC’s adjuster, the final settlement increased to £100,000, reflecting the true extent of the damage covered under the policy.
A key part of the claim involved the property’s carpets. Although cleaning was attempted, the carpets could not be restored to their original condition. CEC successfully negotiated for a full replacement, including the upper floors, where differences in pile and colour would have left an inconsistent finish throughout the home.
The same approach was taken with the property’s decoration. Rather than limiting repairs to the visibly affected areas, CEC negotiated for wallpaper replacement to extend into the undamaged upstairs rooms, ensuring a consistent appearance across the property.
Finding a Practical Solution
The policy also included cover for alternative accommodation whilst the repairs were completed. However, because the insured travelled frequently for work, they preferred to remain in the property rather than move elsewhere. CEC’s adjuster negotiated a cash settlement, with no reduction in the overall claim value, allowing the insured to carry out the work at a time that suited their schedule. This provided a practical solution for the policyholder whilst also helping to avoid the additional costs associated with temporary accommodation.
How CEC Can Help
Complex property damage claims often require more than a straightforward assessment. Whether the damage has been caused by fire, smoke or another insured event, having an experienced loss assessor involved can make a significant difference to the outcome.
If you’re an insurance broker dealing with a challenging property damage claim, CEC can provide the expertise needed to help achieve the best possible settlement.
To find out more about how we can assist, contact CEC on 0141 781 4695 or email info@claimsec.co.uk